Microbiology is the study of microscopic organisms, known as micro-organisms or microbes, that are usually invisible to the naked eye, including bacteria, protozoa, fungi, viruses and prions. These microbes are critical to all aspects of life on our planet. Microbiology is diverse which is reflected in sub-disciplines such as Medical, Environmental, Food and Industrial Microbiology. Several modern scientific disciplines including Genetic Engineering, Genomics, Bioinformatics, Microbial Biotechnology, Immunology and Molecular Biology originated from classical microbiology and therefore form an integral part of the teaching and research of Microbiology in AIT. An industrial placement during the third year of the course provides an opportunity to gain valuable experience and establish direct links with industry.
What will I experience?
The expertise of the lecturers involved in designing and delivering the course in microbiology is extensive. Many are also actively involved in research in different areas of microbiology, so are up to date with current trends in microbiology research.
It will be the only dedicated microbiology degree currently being offered in the country.
Within AIT there is a strong ethos for linking research to teaching, an important point which is increasingly being highlighted as best practice by learning institutions worldwide, for example the Connected Curriculum initiative being run at University College London (UCL).
Microbiology is an exciting field of fundamental importance to all areas of manufacturing, health, the environment and food and drink industries.
Training in microbiology gives students an opportunity to forge a career in a range of different sectors both nationally and internationally.
